Key wouldn't turn in ignition - used WD-40 - next steps?
 

I have a 2012 Taotao ATM150-A Evo 150cc bike. Brand new, first test ride was 2 days ago.

Still working out the bugs. Today after fueling up, the key would insert but wouldn't turn in the ignition. Couldn't turn to the start position or to lock the handle bars.

Played with the key for a few minutes then got on scootdawg via a google search on my phone. Lube was recommended. Fortunately, Lowes does that trinket marketing by placing stuff they think you need along the aisles. The other day, I saw a 3 oz can of WD-40 and thought, hey, that should be in my toolkit on my bike. So I had some WD-40 with me!

So with a squirt of WD-40 in the lock, something freed up, and I was able to start and roll.

Here's my question. Did I screw things up by using WD-40 instead of graphite? Can I still squirt some graphite in there? What do you guys recommend as the next steps in preventative care?

Don't put the graphite in until you have cleaned out the lock well with a solvent. It might be better to do it now than when it fails in the future...

Hi
Get and spray some corrosion x in the keyhole, it will clean and protect
http://www.corrosionx.com/corrosionx.html
http://www.corrosionx.com/
Take care and ride safely
Yours Hank

I always have used wd-40 in my ignition and gas cap and i have had no issues

Hi Terri
Its much more then that WD 40 doesnt even come close
http://www.corrosionx.com/marine.html
http://www.corrosionx.com/electronics.html
Take care and ride safely dear friend
Yours Hank

see i gain knowledge all the time :clap:

It's not an issue in climates that do not support the blowing of fine dry sand. Out here anything with wd-40 (or any oily substance) on it immediately becomes an oily dirtball. You don't want that in your lock. It may not be an issue as long as fine dust in the air isn't an issue

Anytime a key does not work in these Chinese scoots...rotate the key 180 degrees and try it that way..upside down so to speak. I have found on MANY customer scoots that when the keys are cut...they DO NOT wire brush the key to remove any burs as they do when you get a duplicate house or car key made. The scoot keys typically arrive with rough edges and 'flashing' on them from the cutting process makes them not always work properly...